OROSI VALLEY AND LANKESTER GARDENS
After visiting the Basilica we will stop at another key attraction of this area, the spectacular Lankester Botanical Gardens (1). Named after the British botanist, Charles Lankester who was sent here in the 1900’s to plant coffee; this 11-hectare garden is today, home to 600 of the total 1,400 native orchid species found in Costa Rica.
Managed by the University of Costa Rica, this botanical garden has a varied landscape, creating a number of microhabitats, with each habitat housing various species of orchids, bromeliads and other plants. A visit here between the months of February and April is especially beautiful, as this period is flowering season and the garden is visited by hundreds of beautiful birds.
We will continue on to the Valley of Orosi (2) where creation overflows in unparalleled beauty. We will be able to visit one of the few remaining colonial churches and we will stop for a delicious lunch.
Home of the oldest church currently in use in Costa Rica the Iglesia de San Jose Orosi, the small colonial town of Orosi is located in the charming Orosi Valley in Cartago province. With majestic surrounding vistas, picturesque scenic settings and amazing river views, this quiet town is a nature lover’s delight.
Close to the capital San Jose and nearby the provincial capital of Cartago, Orosi is a must visit in the region with its gorgeous climate, fertile soil, lush greenery and thermal baths.
On our return trip we will be able to observe La Casa del Soñador or dreamer’s house, an example of primitive art.
